Ionization detector system having linearized output signal

Abstract

Linearization of an ionization detector is obtained by processing the output signal derived from the ionization detector so as to compensate for the naturally-occurring logarithmic decay of the detector response at high sample concentrations. Linearization is accomplished according to a linearizing formula: I.sub.(lin) =I[1+(I/I.sub.(dec))].sup.pwr where: I.sub.(lin) =linearized output signal current of the detector I=non-linearized output signal current of the detector I.sub.(dec) =output signal current at onset of logarithmic decay pwr=a power factor that compensates for the slope of the logarithmic decay

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A linearized ionization detector for detection of an analyte, comprising: a non-linearized ionization detector having a detector output signal provided on an output signal line;   a linearizing section, connected to the output signal line, for linearizing the detector output signal and for providing a linearized output signal according to the linearizing formula:   I.sub.(lin) =I[1+(I/I.sub.(dec))].sup.pwr     Where:     I.sub.(lin) =linearized output signal current of the detector   I=non-linearized output signal current of the detector   I.sub.(dec) =output signal current at which a logarithmic decay begins to decline   pwr=a power factor that compensates for the slope of the logarithmic decay.